Students to compete in ocean sciences bowl

GALVESTON — More than 20 high schools from across the nation will compete this weekend in the 14th annual National Ocean Sciences Bowl at Texas A&M University at Galveston.

Teams of four and five students will test their knowledge of ocean-related topics in a buzzer-style, multiple choice and critical-thinking competitions.

“Texas A&M University at Galveston is delighted to welcome the regional winners of the National Oceans Science bowl to compete here in the national competition,” said Dr. Donna Lang, associate vice president for enrollment management and outreach. “With marine-related education and research as our primary mission, we can offer the competitors an atmosphere of ocean-oriented academia. It’s close enough for students to take advantage of what Galveston has to offer.”

Students also will be able to take field trips around the island including an ArtistBoat kayak trip, a tour of Pier 21 and Moody Gardens.

About 2,000 students from more 300 high schools participated in the program so far this year. The competition, a program of the Consortium for Ocean Leadership, ends Sunday.

“The National Ocean Sciences bowl is of significant importance to the field of ocean sciences because it attracts and engages so many exceptionally bright students that one day will be the leaders of our field and of our country,” said Robert B. Gagosian, president and CEO of the Consortium for Ocean Leadership. “I know this experience will inspire them to understand how our ocean works, which will be of considerable value to future generations.”

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At A Glance

WHAT: National Ocean Science Bowl

WHEN: Competition times, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Classroom Lab Building Auditorium at Texas A&M University at Galveston campus on Pelican Island